Some frequently asked questions
How many people are necessary to implement this program?
Different staffing models are possible. According to the program as outlined in the A Su Salud En Acción Training Manual, implementation by one or two individuals is possible. However, the level of staffing may vary, depending on several factors, including community needs, screening goals, scope of activities and resources available.
Can the program work with existing community-based programs?
Your host organization's structure and goals will influence integration with other community-based programs. However, the program has been used effectively in conjunction with other chronic disease prevention and control efforts (e.g., asthma, diabetes).
What kind of financial investment does the program require?
The program requires at least one full-time person capable of conducting all the program tasks. A modest array of office equipment to enable record keeping and the creation of monthly newsletters is also needed. With cost savings by joining an existing organization, the total investment could be equivalent to a social worker position with a college education and at least three years of experience.
What kind of results can you expect and how soon?
The answers vary with the community, the resources available and the goals that are set. Typically, as soon as implementation is under way and reasonable goals have been set, clinic usage increases within two months of program initiation. This should continue as long as implementation is consistently maintained. Occasionally, seasonal conditions (e.g., weather, holidays) may delay activities, but rarely longer than four to six weeks.
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